The film was shot in several locations, which added diversity and authenticity. Principal photography took place in Berlin, where the crew filmed key scenes featuring the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. In New York, scenes were shot at the Juilliard School, creating the atmosphere of prestigious music education. The final scenes of the film were shot in the Philippines, where director Todd Field chose unique landscapes to conclude the story. These locations helped create a contrast between the European cultural elite and a more exotic setting, enhancing the film's drama. The Berlin and New York shoots added realism, while the Philippine landscapes brought symbolism and mystery.

Filming Locations:

School

In the Film

Scene where Lydia goes to school to pick up her adopted daughter and learns that Petra is being bullied by a classmate. In this scene, Lydia finds the girl who is bullying Petra and threatens her, saying that God sees everything and that complaining is useless.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Rheingau-Gymnasium, Germany. A real school in Berlin, known for its old building. Berlin was chosen for filming because of its cultural significance and the presence of the Berlin Philharmonic. The film explores the life of the musical elite in this city, making Berlin an important setting. Overall, the choice of filming locations in the film was driven by its cultural and historical context.

Auditorium

In the Film

Scene where Lydia Tár participates in the musician selection process. Lydia evaluates candidates' talents without knowing their identity. She notices a Russian candidate, Olga Metkina, and alters her evaluation sheet to secure her a place in the orchestra. This highlights the complexity of Lydia's character, who can be both talented and manipulative.

In Reality

The scene was filmed in the Otto Braun Saal hall, located in the Berlin State Library. This hall was chosen for its unique architecture and acoustics, making it an ideal venue for musical events. Otto Braun Saal is a historic space often used for concerts and cultural events, aligning with the film's themes of music and culture.

Hall Where the Interview Took Place

In the Film

Scene where Adam Gopnik interviews Lydia Tár. This scene takes place on a large stage in front of a packed hall, where Lydia Tár embodies the contemporary spirit of academic music. Adam Gopnik, a real journalist from The New Yorker, plays himself in the film and conducts the interview with Lydia Tár. He lists her numerous achievements and awards, emphasizing her status as an outstanding figure in the world of classical music. Lydia Tár reflects on her career, mentioning music history and her mentors, such as Leonard Bernstein.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Alice Tully Hall, located in Lincoln Center in New York. This venue was chosen for its cultural significance and architectural beauty. Alice Tully Hall is a famous concert hall that has been home to the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center since 1969. After a renovation in 2009, the hall gained a modern three-story glass entrance with a café and bar, making it a popular spot for Lincoln Center visitors. The choice of Alice Tully Hall for filming was driven by its reputation as one of the best cultural centers in New York. This venue is ideal for high-profile interviews and concerts, matching Lydia Tár's status as a prominent figure in classical music.